REC REPORT FEATURES

October 2016

Despite the many benefits of moderate physical activity, 31 million Americans (28 percent) age 50 years and older are inactive—that is, they are not physically active beyond the basic movements needed for daily life activities. This finding comes from a recent study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

St. Charles Park District in Illinois recently earned a prestigious award from the Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) for intergovernmental collaboration. The Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) awarded the St. Charles Park District its coveted Intergovernmental Award for the park district’s extensive and dedicated collaboration with Community Unit School District 303 for managing the John B. Norris Recreation Center’s programs, memberships and services.

Americans’ support for local parks and recreation is strong, with a majority of Americans agreeing that parks and recreation are important services delivered by local government, and that funding for local parks and recreation agencies should be increased.

When you were in high school, do you recall the option to participate in organized bocce, sailing, air riflery or rock climbing? What about squash, rodeo, canoe paddling or ultimate Frisbee? These are some of the non-traditional sports listed in the annual High School Athletics Participation survey, which shows that in 2015-16, the number of participants in high school sports increased for the 27th consecutive year.

Partnerships play a vital role in protecting and enhancing National Park Service sites and programs. Recently, a variety of groups that have made significant contributions were named as the recipients of the 2016 Director’s Partnership Awards.